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Mental Health and the Holidays

The holidays are a wonderful time of year to connect with loved ones, relax and rejuvenate your mind and body before the New Year. They are a time for love and sharing, but along with joys of the season, stress can be a factor as well. It is important that you take time for yourself and remember what is really important during this season.

Heather Carter, Grand Erie’s School Mental Health and Well-Being stated, “People often focus on the things that need to be done in order for the holiday to run smoothly, and forget about themselves. Self-care is extremely important during this time in order to maintain your physical and mental health and well-being.”

Here are a list of tips you should keep in mind during the holiday season in order to maintain a balanced mental health and well-being:

  • Beware of overindulgence of both food and drink. When we get out of balance we can feel lethargic, irritable and tired. Get active and exercise with your family and don’t forget to get enough sleep.
  • Invite others and connect with your community- find ways to spend time with other people that might be alone for the holidays, or help out at a local food bank or other community organizations.
  • Acknowledge your own feelings. If you are feeling lonely or isolated, seek out community, religious or other social events. They can offer support and companionship.
  • Make yourself a priority- during the holidays, self-care often takes a backseat, but your health should not be ignored. Make sure you are getting enough sleep and keep up activities that make you feel good, such as exercise, reading or time with friends.
  • Remind yourself that pleasing everyone is unrealistic and expensive. A handmade gift, a note or a visit to someone can be very meaningful.
  • Conflict costs of health - set boundaries over the holidays and be patient with yourself. It can be difficult to bring large families together over holidays. Be clear about what you can do and what is not respectful of your needs. If you are feeling overwhelmed with family, you can always take a pause and come back.